During a Chess competition a Chessmaster should be a combination of a beast of prey and a monk
Alexander AlekhineRead
I do not play chess β I fight at chess. Therefore, I willingly combine the tactical with the strategic, the fantastic with the scientific, the combinative with the positional, and I aim to respond to the demands of each given position.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Chess is a complex battle that requires both tactical and strategic thinking.
In this quote, Alexander Alekhine emphasizes that chess is not just a game but a struggle that blends various elements of thinking and planning. He highlights the importance of being adaptable and responsive to the unique challenges presented by each position on the board, underlining the intellectual depth involved in the game of chess.
Themes
ChessStrategyTacticsBattleIntellect
In practice
Example use cases
In a motivational speech about critical thinking for students, I might say, 'As Alekhine said, 'I do not play chess β I fight at chess,' emphasizing the importance of being strategic in our studies.
More from Alexander Alekhine
All quotes βI consider chess an art, and accept all those responsibilities which art places upon its devotees.
Alexander AlekhineRead
Capablanca was snatched too early from the chess world. With his death we have lost a great chess genius, the like of whom we will never see again.
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You can become a big master in chess only if you see your mistakes and short-comings. Exactly the same as in life itself.
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For my victory over Capablanca I am indebted primarily to my superiority in the field of psychology. Capablanca played, relying almost exclusively on his rich intuitive talent. But for the chess struggle nowadays one needs a subtle knowledge of human nature, an understanding of the opponent's psychology.
Alexander AlekhineRead
During a chess tournament a master must envisage himself as a cross between an ascetic monk and a beast of prey.
Alexander AlekhineRead
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